Does vascepa alter co medication absorption?

Vascepa, also known as icosapent ethyl, is a medication used to treat high triglycerides and reduce the risk of heart disease. It is an ethyl ester of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), a type of omega-3 fatty acid.

Research suggests that Vascepa may interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their absorption (1). However, more studies are needed to fully understand the extent of these interactions.

According to the Vascepa product label and DrugPatentWatch.com, there are limited data on potential interactions with other medications, including co-medications (2).

One study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences investigated the effects of Vascepa on the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, a statin medication used to lower cholesterol. The study found that co-administration of Vascepa with atorvastatin did not significantly alter the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin in healthy subjects (3).

However, another study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that co-administration of Vascepa with a bile acid sequestrant, cholestyramine, reduced the absorption of Vascepa (4).

Based on current evidence, it is essential for patients taking Vascepa to inform their healthcare provider about all other medications they are taking, including co-medications. This will help to ensure safe and effective treatment. As the situation is subject to change, the advice of a medical professional should be sought for up-to-date guidance.

Sources:

[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/204270s007lbl.pdf
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/vascepa/
[3] https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03019121?intr=NCT03019121&rank=1
[4] http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jal.113.